Philanthropy MA and Public Policy

Philanthropy MA holds as one of its core goals to be a leading voice of philanthropy in the region. To this end, Philanthropy MA takes an active role in public policy work as it relates to the philanthropic sector. We conduct this work in several ways:

Provide programs and discussions throughout the region to inform Grantmakers about public policy issues and opportunities to promote responsible and effective philanthropy

Develop relationships with government representatives and policy makers to educate them about the role and value of Philanthropy in the region; and

Continue to consider and, if appropriate, advocate public policies that would have a direct, positive impact on philanthropy and the operations of Grantmakers.

To further this work, Philanthropy MA has a Public Policy Committee and is part of PolicyWorks for Philanthropy, a national institute engaging regional associations of grantmakers in policy work.

Philanthropy MA Public Policy Committee

The Committee works to protect the interests and work of foundations, and have an impact on the issues you and your foundation care about. Work and learn with your peers, and increase your foundation's knowledge and capacity as well as your own skills. The Committee meets as needed via teleconference or in person with a call-in option. If you are interested in participating in public policy for philanthropy, we invite you to contact Chief Executive Officer Jeff Poulos.

PolicyWorks for Philanthropy

PolicyWorks for Philanthropy seeks to effectively engage regional associations of grantmakers in policy work that helps to ensure a vibrant philanthropic sector able to strengthen communities. As a project of the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers, the scope of PolicyWorks is to prepare RAs for individual, collaborative, and collective policy work at local, state, and federal levels. PolicyWorks consists of 29 regional associations of grantmakers committed to building their individual and collective capacity to achieve the PolicyWorks vision and goals.

Learn Foundation LawLearn Foundation Law is a free online resource developed by the legal staff at the Packard Foundation, Gates Foundation, Hewlett Foundation and Moore Foundation. This first-of-its-kind resource covers the basic legal rules around what staff are allowed to fund and engage in at a private foundation. The "course" takes less than an hour to complete.

Philanthropy MA Public Policy positions are that of Philanthropy Massachusetts and do not necessarily represent the individual views of Philanthropy MA Members, trustees and staff of Member organizations.